#22 – RHP Eric Beaulac

Why Ranked Here: Beaulac had a nice debut split largely between Kingsport and Savannah, complemented by equally strong scouting reports.Scouts praised both his arm strength, seeing an average to better MLB fastball, and a power breaking ball.

2008:Beaulac set a new Le Moyne Dolphins single-season strikeout record (113) on his way to the 2008 Division I Independent Pitcher of the Year Award.The Mets started Beaulac out in Brooklyn where he made just two relief appearances in June, the second of which was a perfect, five strikeout performance over two innings.That earned him a demotion to Kingsport where he was excellent in three relief appearances before two starts in mid-July.And that prompted the Mets to promote Beaulac to Savannah where he made six strong starts from the end of July to August.One statistical red flag from his Savannah time was the increased walk rate.

Dr. Pangloss Says: Beaulac has two pitches that scouts thought were MLB quality already.From where he is, to a rotation candidacy will require both improved command and a changeup.

On the Flipside: Power arm and a power breaking ball sound like a bullpen starter-kit.

Whenever he arrives it will be nice for the Mets to have developed some pen arms from within. It seems to be one of the easier parts of a team to build from within, yet too many big market teams including the Mets overspend on relievers every year.